What sedan has the highest ground clearance?
Among traditional passenger sedans on sale today, the highest ground clearance you’ll typically find is around six inches, with several models hovering in the mid-5-inch range depending on trim. If you truly need more height, you’ll likely turn to crossovers, wagons, or lifted variants rather than a conventional sedan.
This article surveys current U.S. market sedans and their ground clearance specifications, noting that numbers vary by trim, wheel size, and measurement method. We focus on mainstream, non-luxury models to give a clear sense of which sedans sit higher than the rest and what to expect when shopping.
Top sedans by ground clearance
The following list highlights sedans that are commonly among the highest-riding in their class. Ground clearance figures are approximate and can vary by trim and market.
- Subaru Legacy
- Honda Accord
- Toyota Camry
- Nissan Altima
- Hyundai Sonata
Exact numbers differ across trims and model years, so prospective buyers should confirm the specific ground clearance for the exact configuration they’re considering. In practice, the Legacy, Accord, Camry, Altima, and Sonata are often cited as the leaders in sedan ride height, with some trims edging toward the higher end of the range.
Why ground clearance matters and what to consider
Ground clearance affects capability on uneven roads, snow, and speed bumps, as well as the risk of undercarriage damage. Higher clearance helps with rough pavement and adverse conditions but can influence aerodynamics, ride quality, and entry height. When evaluating sedans for height, check the exact specification for the trim you’re eyeing and, if possible, test the car to assess how the height feels in daily use.
Other options if you want higher clearance than most sedans
For customers who prioritize height above all else, crossovers and wagons typically offer substantially more ground clearance than traditional sedans. The Subaru Outback (a wagon with SUV-like height) and various compact and midsize crossovers provide clearer advantages in this area. Some brands also offer “lifted” or taller-than-average sedans as niche configurations, but these are not as common and can vary by market.
Summary
Summary: In the current market, the highest-ground-clearance sedans sit around six inches, with the Subaru Legacy often among the tallest, and other top contenders including the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, and Hyundai Sonata hovering in the upper mid-5-inch range. If you need significantly more clearance, a wagon or crossover is usually a better bet than a traditional sedan.
